SIEC: Election details awaits the passing of the 2022 Budget
THE Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has assured the people of West Kwaio Constituency that the by-election for the constituency will take place this year.
In a statement, SIEC acknowledges West Kwaio constituents’ concern over the delay of West Kwaio constituency by-election.
The electoral office also confirms that West Kwaio by-election is one of the outstanding electoral activities for this year, 2022.
“Plans to hold the West Kwaio by-election has been in-place last year and Electoral Office has ever since prepared, however factors affecting the delay is beyond the Commission’s control.
“The budget implications brought by this pandemic covid-19 across all sectors has sheared electoral budgets from the government even further.
“Funding and budget cuts were some off the setback to implementations of these plans,” the statement said.
Amongst these outstanding electoral events are voter registration update for Choiseul and Western provinces and their subsequent provincial assemblies’ elections, it added.
At the moment, the Electoral Commission is implementing HCC Vuhokesa ward by-election, in Central Honiara Constituency with shared cost from Council funds.
“Electoral commission has its own activity calendar within its 4-year electoral cycle of which activities are being planned and budgeted for accordingly.
“Electoral Commission’s role is to facilitate the process to give you a voice at national parliament and we will ensure with all support from the government, donor partners and your cooperation allow you to elect your leader,” the statement further added.
West Kwaio constituency has lost their MP for national parliament late Hon. Titus Fika late last year, 2021
Meanwhile, SIEC assures voters from West Kwaio that it is ready to progress work.
SIEC said the details of the by-election will be made when funds are available – most probably after the 2022 Budget is passed by parliament.
“As soon as this current budget is passed, the Commission will be rolling out the by-election for the West Kwaio constituency.
“However, the holding of national by-election depends on Electoral Commission’s decision which again subjected hugely to availability of funds
“The details on the election date for this by-election will be made known to West Kwaio voters and constituents as soon as funds are available.
For enquiries on any matter related to elections and the work of Electoral commission, do not hesitate to call SIEO office helpline 7222200 or office main switch board 2118/9. Or you can also visit our SIEO website www.siec.gov.sb and follow official Facebook page @[email protected] for updates and announcement.
